Last Thursday, the Fishermans Bend Business Forum and the City of Port Phillip convened a forum to discuss the evolving plans for Fishermans Bend. The forum was timely as it follows the recent announcement by the University of Melbourne to postpose its proposed campus development.
The panellists were:
- Nina Taylor MP, Parliamentary Secretary for Education, Labor MP for Albert Park
- Tanya Quick – Director, Fishermans Bend Taskforce, Victorian Government
- Cr Alex Makin – City of Port Phillip
- Cr Andrew Rowse – City of Melbourne
- Guy Naselli – President, Fishermans Bend Business Forum / NSL Property Group
- Marcus Henry – Fishermans Bend Business Forum / Melbourne Cement Facilities
Under the guidance of Janet Bolitho, a former Mayor of the City of Port Phillip, the panellists gave a summary of development so far. There was mention of an Integrated Transport Plan which shows new routes for tram services into Fishermans Bend.
Unfortunately, there was no clarity on the timetable for the provision of the tram services that were promised by 2025. The BCNA considers this a disappointing outcome for businesses, residents, and investors. It will continue to slow development. The area is earmarked for 80,000 residents but the absence of a firm timetable for tram services will continue to slow development.